Description
Let me paint you a picture. It’s 2 AM, the dogs are barking at something in the yard, and you need a tool that’s going to work without a second thought. That’s the exact scenario the Maverick 88 Security/Special Purpose Pump 12 ga 20″ Barrel 3″ 7rd was built for. I’ve put hundreds of rounds of everything from birdshot to slugs through this platform, and it’s the definition of no-frills reliability.
So, what is it? The Maverick 88 Security is a pump-action, 12-gauge shotgun with a 20-inch cylinder-bore barrel, a 7-round total capacity (6+1), and a 3-inch chamber. It’s Mossberg’s budget-friendly workhorse, built on a proven action to deliver dependable home defense and utility performance at an accessible price point of $234.90. It’s the shotgun you grab when you absolutely cannot afford a malfunction.
The heart of this gun is its dual-action bars. Unlike some budget pumps that use a single action bar, the Maverick 88 uses twin bars, just like its more expensive Mossberg 500 and 590 siblings. This provides a smoother, more positive pump stroke and significantly reduces the chance of binding. The cross-bolt safety is tang-mounted, right under your thumb, making it intuitive to swipe on or off without breaking your grip. It’s a simple, effective system that’s been proven for decades.
That 20-inch barrel gives you a very handy overall length, perfect for maneuvering in tight hallways or from a vehicle. With a cylinder bore choke (no choke tubes), it patterns defensive buckshot effectively at indoor distances. The synthetic stock and forend are durable and weather-resistant. Here’s the thing—while it’s basic, it’s also incredibly versatile. The receiver is drilled and tapped for optics mounts, and the forend is compatible with many Mossberg 500 accessories. I’ve personally added a simple sidesaddle shell carrier from a brand like Esstac, and it was drop-in ready, no gunsmithing required.
Weighing in at about 7.25 pounds unloaded, it has enough heft to soak up 12-gauge recoil but isn’t so heavy it’s cumbersome. The 7-round capacity gives you a meaningful amount of firepower on tap. The steel-to-steel lockup is solid, and the whole package just feels honest. It’s not trying to be a tricked-out tactical gun; it’s a fundamental tool that performs its core function without fail.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 20″ |
| Overall Length | 41″ |
| Capacity | 6+1 Rounds |
| Weight | Approx. 7.25 lbs |
| Safety | Tang-Mounted Cross-Bolt |
| Choke | Cylinder Bore (Fixed) |
Pros & Cons
Pros: Unbeatable value for a proven design. Extremely reliable with a wide range of ammunition. Simple manual of arms, great for beginners. Compatible with a huge aftermarket for Mossberg 500 forends and stocks. The price leaves room in your budget for ammo and a light.
Cons: The fit and finish are utilitarian—you’ll see mold lines on the polymer. The fixed cylinder choke limits versatility for clay or bird hunting. The trigger is serviceable but nothing special. Some may prefer a pistol-grip stock configuration, which would be an add-on.
Who is this for? This is the first-time shotgun buyer who needs dependable home defense without breaking the bank. It’s for the Missouri landowner who needs a reliable tool for varmint control around the barn. It’s the budget-conscious shooter who understands that spending less on the platform means spending more on practice ammunition. If your priority is function over form, this is your shotgun.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Maverick 88 just a cheaper Mossberg 500?
A: Essentially, yes, but with key cost-saving differences. The action and barrel are the same. The main differences are the Maverick’s trigger group is assembled in Mexico (Mossberg’s facility), it uses a pinned forend instead of a removable nut, and the safety is on the tang instead of the top. For 99% of users, these changes don’t impact durability or function.
Q: Can I add a magazine tube extension?
A: No, not easily. The magazine tube is not threaded like on a Mossberg 590. The 7-round capacity (6 in the tube, 1 in the chamber) is fixed. For most defensive scenarios, 7 rounds of 12-gauge is a substantial amount of firepower.
<strongQ: What’s the difference between the Security and the “All Purpose” model?
A: The Security model has a shorter 20″ barrel and a 6+1 capacity, optimized for defensive use. The “All Purpose” field model typically comes with a 28″ barrel and a choke tube system, making it more versatile for hunting or clays. The Security model’s fixed cylinder bore is ideal for buckshot at close range.
If you’re looking for an honest, dependable 12-gauge that gets the job done without any pretension, the Maverick 88 Security is a standout choice. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. See the full details on our site.
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